With its mix of warm, sunny days and crisp weather, fall is a great time to get outside and experience firsthand the changing of the seasons. That’s especially true in Hood River, when the summer crowds peter out, trees along the Columbia River waterfront change colors, and the farms and orchards of the Hood River Fruit Loop pop with the bounty of harvest season — offering fun U-pick opportunities and family-friendly festivals. Enjoy an outdoor adventure, sample seasonal specialties at local restaurants and kick back with a comfortable stay. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the ultimate fall getaway to Hood River.
Get Outside in the Autumn Air
With its prime position in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge and at the base of Mt. Hood, you’ll find outdoor activities year-round. Many hiking trails surround Hood River, showcasing towering waterfalls, wide-open viewpoints and sun-kissed rock formations. Guided cycling opportunities abound around Hood River, as well. Before winter rain sets in, book a backcountry e-bike tour through the Hood River Valley with Hood River Mountain Bike Adventures or Sol Rides.
If snow appears in the forecast, you can even plan a day trip to go snowshoeing or skiing — especially since Mt. Hood Meadows may open as early as November. Rock climbers can climb outdoors or indoors in a fascinating location, a former church that dates back to 1896. Brimstone Boulders, located in the upper level of the old Asbury Church, offers both indoor and outdoor rock-climbing sessions.
Where to Taste Hood River Valley’s Local Cuisine
Restaurants serving inventive dishes — many crafted with seasonal, Gorge-grown ingredients — are around nearly every corner in Hood River. Enjoy the elegant dining room at Celilo Restaurant and Bar, an upscale eatery featuring Northwest ingredients and flavors. If pizza sounds good, head into Solstice Wood Fire Pizza & Bar, with wood-fired pies and an outdoor heated dining area right on the waterfront. There’s no wrong time of day to pop in to KickStand Coffee & Kitchen, which has an eclectic food and cocktail menu for brunch or dinner.
With a long list of award-winning wineries and eateries, the famed Hood River Fruit Loop is a blueprint for a tasty road trip. Pick and choose your own stops to sample fresh produce, craft beverages and artisan goodies of the fall harvest. Stock up on fresh produce, apple cider doughnuts and savory baked goods at markets along the 35-mile route, and make time for the loop’s U-pick farms and orchards — where pumpkins, apples and pears are usually in season through October.
Choose a Cozy Place to Stay
To maximize your adventures in town, consider booking a stay at any of Hood River’s gorgeous lodgings — all perfect for warming up after a day of fun. Dating back to 1912, the Hood River Hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been lovingly restored to include modern touches, resulting in a beautiful and relaxing stay. Just around the corner, the boutique Lightwell Hotel & Spa — slated to be open in November 2025 — offers well-appointed rooms and panoramic Gorge views along with an on-site Mediterranean restaurant, Hood River’s first rooftop bar and a luxurious spa.
If waking up to stunning views is more up your alley, check out the cliffside Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa and consider opting for a riverside suite, which includes an in-room fireplace.
Ready to head out? Leave the driving to someone else, and consider a car-free trip via one of many bus, shuttle, train and bike routes that head to Hood River. Find more tips for the best experience at Ready, Set, GOrge.
